Yonaha Maehama Beach

与那覇前浜ビーチ

Known as the 'Best Beach in the East', this 7 km stretch of white sand has powder-fine sand and gradients of 'Miyako Blue' water, with Kurima Bridge across the way, the signature beach of Miyako Island.

Yonaha Maehama Beach lies on the southwest coast of Miyako Island. It stretches about 7 km, with sand as fine and white as powder and water that shifts from clear to cobalt blue. It is known as the most beautiful beach in the East, and each April it hosts the swimming leg of the Ironman Miyakojima race. The beach faces Kurima Island, and the 1,690-metre Kurima Bridge spans the gap. The classic photo of Miyako Island is the view of the beach and bridge from the Ryugu-jo observation deck on Kurima Island. The beach is free to enter and has changing rooms and showers. Banana boats and jet skis are available for a fee. Lifeguards are on duty from April to October. The water is shallow and gentle, which suits families with children. Other recommended spots on Miyako Island include Irabu Bridge (at 3,540 metres, Japan's longest toll-free sea bridge), Sunayama Beach, Cape Higashi-hennazaki Lighthouse, Shinjo Coast and Yoshino Coast, where you can snorkel to see coral and sea turtles. Getting there: fly from Naha to Miyako Airport in about 50 minutes, then drive about 15 minutes to the beach. Seasonal direct flights to Miyako Island operate from Shanghai. You must rent a car on the island, and you need an international driving permit or a Japanese-recognised licence with a translation. Note that Miyako Island has no rivers. The sea is extremely clear, but the UV is very strong. The beach has no shade, so bring your own umbrella. During typhoon season, flights and accommodation may be changed, so consider travel insurance.

Yonaha Maehama Beach

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